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Air Fryer Korean Pork Belly: A Deliciously Crispy Delight

Korean cuisine has taken the culinary world by storm, known for its bold flavours and unique combinations. One dish that stands out is the mouth-watering Korean pork belly, or “Samgyeopsal” (삼겹살). Traditionally grilled at high heat, this succulent staple can now be easily prepared in an air fryer, bringing the same delicious results with less fuss and cleaner cooking. In this article, we will delve into the method of making air fryer Korean pork belly, ensuring you can indulge in this crispy delight from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients

For this simple recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g pork belly, skin scored
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Optional: 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) for a spicy kick

Preparation

1. Marinate the Pork Belly:
   Start by mixing the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, minced ginger, and black pepper in a large bowl. If you’re opting for a bit of spice, add the gochujang to the mixture as well. Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 inches) and place them into the marinade. Ensure all the pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, though overnight is even better for deeper flavour.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5-10 minutes. This step ensures that the pork belly gets that lovely crisp on the outside.

3. Cook the Pork Belly:
   Place the marinated pork belly pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Cook the pork belly for approximately 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the pieces and the model of your air fryer.

4. Check for Doneness:
   The pork belly should be golden brown on the outside and tender inside. If you desire an extra crispy finish, you can increase the temperature to 220°C (428°F) for the last few minutes of cooking.

5. Serve:
   Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot, garnished with sesame seeds and spring onions if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, fresh lettuce leaves for wrapping, and an array of dipping sauces like ssamjang or a simple soy sauce.

Additional Tips

• Side Dishes: Consider serving kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad to complement the rich flavours of the pork belly.

• Timing: Since air fryers can vary by model, it’s a good idea to check on the pork belly periodically towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

• Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different marinades and spices. Adding a splash of rice vinegar or some apple slices to the marinade can provide a lovely depth to the flavour.

Conclusion

Air fryer Korean pork belly is a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved dish without the need for grilling or frying in heavy oil. The air fryer brings out the natural flavours and texture of the pork while providing that sought-after crispy finish. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weeknight or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With the simplicity of preparation and the mouth-watering result, air fryer Korean pork belly may become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Korean cuisine – it’s a delicious journey worthy of exploration!